Cassava Republic Press has unveiled the shortlist for its inaugural Global Black Women’s Non-fiction Manuscript Prize, featuring five exceptional works that span continents and showcase the diverse intellectual contributions of Black women writers worldwide.
The shortlisted manuscripts, selected from a competitive longlist of nine entries across Africa, Europe and the Americas, demonstrate the remarkable breadth of Black women’s scholarly and creative expression.
The five shortlisted manuscripts are as follows:
• “Anxiolytic Notes” by Helena Sylvestre (Brazil)
In an intimate and deeply evocative exploration of anxiety, identity, and
resilience, Anxiolytic Notes delves into the lived experience of an Afro-
Indigenous woman in Brazil. This compelling work navigates her mental health challenges amid the social and environmental crises of the Anthropocene.
• “Elemental Solidarity” by Sindhi Leigh Mcbridge (South Africa)
Elemental Solidarity is a provocative and immersive exploration of how African and Afro-diasporic artists offer fresh, urgent insights on the climate
crisis, challenging traditional science about climate science, through culturally resonant art that redefines how we see, feel and respond to environmental change.
• “Black Beauty Model Agency” by Desta Haile (Eritrea)
What do the iconic Grace Jones, a trailblazing Liberian diplomat, a striking Mormon supermodel, the legendary Richard Roundtree, a Buddhist visionary from Harlem, Sheryl Lee Ralph, and Eritrea’s revered Poet Laureate have in
common? Black Beauty Model Agency. This vivid and reflective journey through 1960s NYC invites readers into an Afro-diasporic world of elegance and transformation.
Haile introduces the extraordinary women who founded it and the remarkable individuals they signed, each reshaping fashion and
culture.
•” the cosmic matter of Black lives” by Cherise Morris (United States)
the cosmic matter of Black lives is an evocative collection of lyric essays, poetic interludes, and rituals that delves into the intricate philosophical, political, cosmological and spiritual layers of Blackness. This compelling work converges at the intersections of enduring and evolving anti-Black violences, systemic inequities, environmental injustices, and ecological disruptions.
• “Through The Lens Of Food: A Decolonised Exploration of Black, Middle-class Identity” by Pamella Gysman (South Africa)
Through the Lens of Food reveals how food acts as a powerful marker of identity, strength, and agency within an unequal society. Through a richly nuanced exploration of South Africa’s Black middle class, it immerses readers
in a dynamic reality where food becomes a vital tool for self-definition, connection and belonging.
Bernardine Evaristo, the distinguished chair of judges and award-winning author, praised the exceptional quality of the submissions, noting that the shortlisted works “reveal the breadth of black women’s intellectual and creative enquiry.” The prize, supported by organisations including Alitheia Capital and Open Society Foundations Africa, offers substantial recognition for these emerging voices, with the winner set to receive a $20,000 advance and a publishing contract. Two runners-up will each be awarded $5,000 advances and publishing deals.
The selection represents a significant milestone in global publishing, highlighting themes ranging from environmental activism and mental health to food politics and cultural identity. The prize demonstrates Cassava Republic Press’s commitment to amplifying Black women’s voices and perspectives on the international stage.
The winner will be announced on December 4, marking a new chapter in the celebration of Black women’s intellectual work. Operating from both Abuja and London, Cassava Republic Press continues to establish itself as a leading force in global Black publishing, having sold over six million books across more than 60 countries in its 17-year history.
